Policies and political decisions – made at local and international levels – form and influence the social, economic and environmental world we live in. The focus of your programme is how to affect societal change through applied studies of political challenges. Conduct research in direct collaboration with surrounding society and hold an internship to move your career forward during your two-year master’s programme. A collaboration between University West in Sweden and University of the Western Cape in South Africa, your programme is truly international.

WORK INTEGRATED LEARNING MEETS POLITICAL STUDIES

University West is Sweden’s leading university for Work Integrated Learning (WIL). The university was tasked with the development of WIL by the Swedish government 15+ years ago and continues to lead the field today. WIL is the practice of moving from academic and theoretical learning to real-world applications within the duration of your programme.

No other international, interdisciplinary programme offers a master's degree in WIL with a specialisation in political studies. On graduation, you’ll be prepared for professional work across cultural and national borders to develop, implement and lead projects handling politically and economically oriented issues.

YEAR-LONG WORK PLACEMENT

Throughout the second year of your programme, you will work on real-life challenges facing nonprofits, institutions or other organisations through a research placement in Sweden or South Africa. The networks and experiences you gain will be key in your future working life.

This research project will be the foundation of your master's thesis, and you’ll conduct it under the continuous supervision of and seminars given by the programme staff.